Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement expressing concern over Iran's nuclear activities:

"Canada is deeply troubled by the recent revelation that Iran has been building a covert uranium enrichment facility for several years. This is especially worrisome considering the continuous repugnant statements by the President of Iran. Canada is unequivocal in stating that a regime that abuses its own people, crushes democratic desires and shows little regard for its neighbours is a threat to the world community should it acquire nuclear weapons.

"We condemn Iran's continued refusal to meet its obligations under UN Security Council resolutions and International Atomic Energy Association requirements. Iran's actions threaten regional stability and international peace and security.

"We urge the IAEA to investigate this facility and report to the IAEA Board of Governors without delay. We also call on Iran to cooperate fully and comprehensively with the IAEA to meet its commitments to transparency and cooperation.

"We hope that talks between the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany and Iran on October 1st will address the continued dishonesty surrounding Iran's nuclear program.

"Canada has been very clear. We will be very supportive of whatever actions are necessary to deal with threats to acquire nuclear weapons."